The Grand Cherokee plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), badged as “4xe,” operates on electric power part-time and retains its rugged Jeep character and air of a premium SUV. It’s quicker than the standard Grand Cherokee but also significantly more expensive, although federal tax incentives for PHEVs can help offset some of the price for those who qualify.
For consumers new to PHEVs, these are hybrids with larger batteries that can be plugged into a 120-volt outlet or 240-volt EV charger. This gives the vehicle a dedicated electric-only driving range (typically for about 20 to 40 miles; in the Grand Cherokee 4xe’s case it’s an EPA-estimated 25 miles) for commuting and around-town errands, which is something that regular hybrids can’t do. When the battery is drained, the vehicle switches to regular hybrid operation. This also means that, unlike a full battery-electric vehicle, there is no need to find a public charger on a long trip because the gas engine takes over once the electric range is used up.
For buyers who are nervous about going all-in for an EV, a plug-in hybrid could be a logical and cautious step toward electrification. PHEVs make especially good sense if you have a short commute to work, rarely drive long distances, and have the ability to plug in your vehicle at home to charge overnight—which will help you save money at the gas pump.
After the Grand Cherokee 4xe uses up its 25 miles of electric range, it transitions into regular hybrid operation, where it smoothly switches back and forth between electric and gas power. Even when running on electric power, if the driver floors the accelerator pedal the gas engine will kick in, as is the case with most PHEVs. Drivers can switch to a mode to save the electric power for later during their drive rather than use it up-front, as is the default mode. It takes about two and a half hours to charge the 4xe’s battery using a 240-volt (Level 2) EV charger, but owners can get away with a regular 120-volt household outlet for overnight charging, which took us about 13 hours from empty.
The 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder engine, in concert with the electric drive, makes the 4xe noticeably quicker than the standard Grand Cherokee V6, thanks to the hearty 375 horsepower of total system output. As such, it’s nearly two-seconds quicker from 0 to 60 mph than the regular model, and we appreciate that the turbo-four delivers a refined feel. Once the electric power is depleted, fuel economy as a hybrid is 21 mpg overall. That’s not much better than the 20 mpg overall we managed with the standard 3.6-liter V6. Clearly, in order to reap the full benefits of the PHEV, owners will want to recharge the 4xe frequently to make the best use of its electric miles.
The rest of the 4xe is much like the conventional Grand Cherokee, delivering sound and secure handling, and a firm yet steady and comfortable ride, particularly with the smaller 18-inch tires. Brake pedal feel is solid and inspires confidence, although stopping distances are on the long side.
The GC’s cabin is modern and nicely finished with comfortable front seats. The rear seat is roomy and cargo space is unaffected by the PHEV’s battery. Unique Jeep details, such as depictions of all five generations of the Grand Cherokee on the rear side window and another of the GC grille and headlights on the windshield, add to the Jeep’s charm.
Controls are easy to use for the most part, barring a few PHEV-specific details such as interacting with the driving modes—if you’re inclined—and the need to push a fuel flap release before refueling due to the pressure in the gas tank. The latest Uconnect 5 infotainment system has many features and levels of customization but requires an initial learning curve.
The 4xe comes with standard four-wheel drive, including a low-range. But those who are looking to hit challenging trails should consider the Trailhawk version which has specific off-road modes and height adjustable suspension, facilitating hard-core off-roading.
Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, automatic emergency braking that operates at highway speeds, blind spot warning, rear cross traffic warning, reverse automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane keeping assistance, and automatic high beams come standard on the Grand Cherokee 4xe.